Saanich Council has approved amendments to its zoning bylaw aimed at modernizing parking standards, supporting sustainable transportation options, and expediting housing developments.
The changes, effective Jan. 1, will include the following updates:
- Reduced parking minimums: Residential projects with 12 or fewer units now require only one stall per unit, with some zones potentially requiring fewer stalls based on location.
- Parking maximums and TDM requirements: Residential projects with more than 12 units are capped at 1.5 parking stalls per unit and must implement at least two Transportation Demand Management (TDM) measures, such as transit incentives, cycling facilities, carshare options, or unbundled parking.
- EV charging: For buildings with over 12 units, all parking spaces must be equipped for electric vehicle charging.
- Loading zones: Larger residential developments are required to provide on-site loading zones for delivery and logistics vehicles.
- Non-market housing: Projects focused on non-market housing are exempt from TDM requirements.
The bylaw changes are part of an interim update, with a more comprehensive review of parking regulations planned for 2025 to include commercial and institutional uses.
“Taking this step to modernize our parking requirements is aimed at helping us get more affordable, infill housing built in our community,” said Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. “These measures also respond to the needs of people who want to live in walkable, complete communities where they don’t necessarily need to own a car to access the services and amenities they desire.”
Developments already in progress can opt into the new regulations or continue under the current standards until March 10, 2025.
The initiative reflects the district’s broader goals for sustainable growth and housing accessibility.
